Billy Bob Orchards

Bill Peixoto

Bill Peixoto’s parents bought 8 acres and a small house near Watsonville, CA in 1957. In 1965, they bought a 2.5 acre apple orchard adjacent to their property. When Bill’s father died in 1983, he and his brother Bob took over the small orchard adjacent to their parents’ property. They began replanting it with newer varieties a little bit every year.

After 4 years, Bob had had enough of apple farming, and Bill continued on his own. In 1990, Bill rented a larger orchard from a family friend and began renovating with newer varieties of apples. He began to transition to organic in 1996, and received certification in 1999. Today, Bill grows over 10 varieties of organic apples on 15 acres. His main varieties are Fuji, Jonagold, and Pippin.


View Larger Map
Markets:South Berkeley (Tuesday)Downtown Berkeley (Saturday)Season:
August – FebruaryProduct: Apples- Fuji, Jonagold, Pippin, Braeburn, Gala, Granny Smith, Empire, Cameo, Pink Lady, Orrin, Sonata, Mutsu, and Black TwigFarmer's Name: Bill PeixotoMailing Address: 911 Green Valley Rd
Watsonville, CA, CA 95076
Email: zacman51@gmail.com
Phone: (831) 345-1850
Website: http://www.billyboborchards.comFarm Location:
Watsonville, Santa Cruz County, CADistance From Berkeley:
90 milesSoil Type: Clay LoamWater Source: Reservoir, WellAbout the Farm:
Bill does most of the work on the farm, and operates with fewer than 15 employees in peak season for harvest and pruning. Bill’s son, Zac, assists with market sales.Organic Certification: Certified Organic by QAI since 1999Fertilizer: Cover CropsWeed Control: Hoeing, mechanical cultivationPest Management: Pheromone dispensers, insect traps, and dormant oilAcreage: 15 acres